April 25, 2015 (San Diego’s East County) – The San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) has released a $200 billion, 35-year regional growth plan for the county titled "San Diego Forward: The Regional Plan." The plan lays out visions for transportation, sustainability and growth through 2050 including higher density land use along transportation corridors.

Several public hearings will be held including a May 13th hearing at 6 p.m. in La Mesa’s community center. But thus far, no hearings have been schedule in East County’s mountain, desert or rural areas.

East County Magazine asked the County why no hearings are scheduled in those areas. We pointed out that rural, mountain and desert areas lack public transit, making it difficult for residents to travel long distances to attend hearings in San Diego or even La Mesa. In response, the County indicated it could hold additional workshops potentially if a community group to partner with could be found.

Throughout June and July, SANDAG will hold community workshops countywide to solicit public input on the biggest issues facing the region between now and 2050 – including the economy, environment, energy, transportation, public health, land use, borders, and social equity. Iinput gathered at these workshops will be used to develop San Diego Forward: The Regional Plan. The SANDAG Board is expected to adopt the plan in 2015.

A workshop in East County will be held on June 27 from 6-8 p.m. in the La Mesa Community Center, Arbor View Room, 4975 Memorial Drive, La Mesa. For a full list of workshops, scroll down.